LATEST IN TRAVEL

“I SAT there one day reflecting on all the people I had screwed over in the pursuit of success.” This fed-up Aussie set of for life of travel, arriving in his latest destination with just $7 in his pocket.

While the urge to hang around the gate waiting for your flight to be called can be overwhelming (and quite understandable, given you're more likely to get a spot in the overhead locker the sooner board your flight), you're just getting in the way of other passengers trying to board.

Attempt humour

This isn't the time to push the envelope in an attempt to make others laugh. Joking around when asked questions by airport security is a no-no, e.g. "did someone else pack your bag?" and you respond "yes, a shady-looking man approached me ...". These scenarios are serious and DO play out at airports around the world. Take for example the case detailed yesterday where an Australian couple fell victim to a bag-tampering drug scam.
Even be cautious when talking to other passengers in case something you say could be misinterpreted by staff.

When you're exhausted from changing time-zones and connecting flights, it can be tempted to nod off for a while, but if you're travelling solo you could wake up to find your flight has left without you. Or your wallet. It may be best to wait until you're on the plane.

A passenger sleeps on a bench while waiting for his flight at Beijing Airport. Picture: APSource: AP

Lose your cool

Flying is stressful. That's a given. Delays happen. Mistakes happen. Sometimes you may have to pay extra for an overweight bag. Yelling at the airport staff isn't going to help, and it's not acceptable. Passengers in China break this rule all too often.

Airport rage

Think 'I'll just buy it at the airport'

99 per cent of the time, items are more expensive at the airport. As tempting as it is to skip the shops and grab those snacks and books at the airport, a quick trip to the shops beforehand can make a big difference to the hip pocket, especially if you're a frequent traveller.

Play videos really loudly on your mobile phone

OK, kids are kids, we can put up with that. But for adults, it's a no-no. Same goes for texting with keypad sounds turned on. Eek!

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